Our achievements. Our accomplishments. Our impact.

Public Engagement

The Stem Cell Network has elevated the level of public discourse and understanding about stem cells in Canada by engaging Canadians in artistic, accessible and innovative explorations of emerging issues in the field and by becoming an active and respected presence online.

When the Stem Cell Network was first funded, its leadership considered that catalyzing a single clinical trial during its 14-year mandate would have been a success. Instead, the Network’s research investments have led to 12 clinical trials on various diseases, with even more in the development pipeline.

In collaboration with educators, researchers and graduate-level trainees, the Stem Cell Network has directly engaged thousands of high school students across the country to enhance their learning about various aspects of stem cell research.

By prioritizing multidisciplinary research partnerships among stem cell researchers across Canada, the Stem Cell Network integrated the country’s previously fractured landscape into a comprehensive and globally respected research community.

The Stem Cell Network’s catalysis of commercialization of stem cell research has led to 399 patent applications, 60 issued patents, 43 licenses granted, the growth or launch of 11 start-up biotechnology companies and the establishment of a new Centre for the Commercialization of Regenerative Medicine (CCRM) to develop a strong industry presence in several emerging technology areas likely to be crucial to the future delivery of stem cell-based therapies.

The Stem Cell Network worked diligently to identify key areas where enhanced training, provided on a national scale, would have direct benefits on research outcomes and also for Canada’s future scientists and clinicians.

The multidisciplinary research and training program offered by the Stem Cell Network enriched and accelerated the careers of hundreds of young researchers, many of whom can now be found across industry, government and academia.